Unveiling the benefits of stretch-shortening cycle exercise for children with obstetric brachial plexus injury: a clinical trial assessing muscle strength, bone mineral density, and functional capacity.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Obstetric brachial plexus injury (OBPI) is associated with several temporary or permanent impairments including muscle weakness/atrophy and retarded bone accrual, which negatively affect upper extremity functionality. Thus, to remedy these impairments, improved and unequivocally effective intervention strategies are required.

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week stretch-shortening cycle exercise (SSC-Ex) program on muscle strength, bone mineral density, and upper extremity function in a convenience sample of children with OBPI.

Design

A prospective, dual-group randomized controlled trial with the outcome assessor being blinded to the treatment allocation.

Population

Fifty-six children with a confirmed diagnosis of the upper-arm type of OBPI

SUBMITTER: Elnaggar RK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11919458 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature